Disclaimer: The information contained below should be used as a guide and not in lieu of any professional medical treatment.

What is the recommended childhood immunization schedule?

Hepatitis B: 1 month, 2 mos, 6 mos.

Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (DTAP): 2 mos, 4 mos, 6 mos, 15-18 mos, 4-6 yrs.

Haemophilis Influenza Type b (HIB): 2 mos, 4 mos, 6 mos, 12-15 mos.

Inactivated Polio (IPV): 2 mos, 4 mos, 6-18 mos, 4-6 yrs.

Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR): 12-15 mos and 4-6 years.

Varicella (Chickenpox): 12 mos.

Pneumoocal (Prevnar): 2 mos, 4 mos, 6 mos, 12-15 mos.

What is considered a “high fever”?

High fevers are more common in children than in adults, but will usually respond to Tylenol or Motrin. A lukewarm bath may also be used if the temperature does not go down. Much more important than the height of the temperature, though, is how the child is acting. (Treat the child, not the fever). Even if the fever is not very high, but the child is lethargic or “out of it”, this is a cause for concern. By the same token, if the temperature is a high 104 degrees but the child is playing and active, one can treat the fever without being too concerned.

We do not want a temperature of less than 101 degrees to be treated since an elevated temperature does serve a purpose in fighting infection. Fever starts at 101.4 degrees and below that is normal.

We do take seriously a fever in an infant up to 4 months. The doctor should be called if there is a temperature of 101 degrees or higher in a young baby.

How do I know if my child has an ear infection?

Middle ear infections are common in small children and usually follow a cold or congestion. They may tug at their ears or complain of ear pain and may also have a fever. An emergency treatment would be to put 4 drops of olive oil or baby oil in the ear and make an appointment to see the doctor.

My child has diarrhea, what should I do?

If your child has diarrhea a bland diet should be tried for a few days. Something very helpful is called the BRATT diet. This stands for: bananas, rice, applesauce, tea and toast. Peanut butter is also okay. Clear liquids like Gatorade, Pedialyte or water is good. NO JUICE OR MILK!

My child is vomiting, what should I do?

Treat it the same way as you would diarrhea, only go slowly at first with clear fluids. (Ice popsicles, Jell-O, ginger ale, 7-Up, etc.)

My child’s eyes are pink, red and itchy, what should I do?

An immediate measure would be to use Collyrium Fresh. If it is not doing better in a day or so, please call for an appointment.

My child has a rash, what should I do?

Assuming that the child is not very ill, start by treating the symptoms. If it is itchy you may give Aveeno baths and give Benadryl by mouth. If it persists, please contact us so your child may be treated as soon as possible.

My child has diaper rash, what should I do?

Often times babies develop a rash caused by a yeast infection. You may use Lotrimin or Micatin for a five day period. If there is no improvement, contact River's Edge Pediatrics.

My child is wheezing, what should I do?

If your child has a history of asthma, administer a fast acting inhaler as prescribed. If this does not help and the child has difficulty breathing or is gasping for air, of course proceed to the emergency room.

What if my child complains of burning on urination?

Urinary infections are quite common in children, due to soapy bath water and sometimes not rinsing properly. You can push fluids such as cranberry juice and water. If it persists for a few days, the urine will need to be checked for infection.

My child has a sore throat, what should I do?

You can administer Tylenol and Motrin for the pain. If it persists for longer than 2 – 3 days, your should contact us for further evaluation.

When should I take my child to the Emergency Room?

1. If your child is having difficulty breathing.

2. If your child’s temperature is above 104 degrees and won’t come down with Tylenol or Motrin.

3. If your child has severe abdominal pain.

4. Deep lacerations or possible fractures.

5. Severe burns.

6. Chest pain.